Celebrate Halloween In New Orleans

Halloween in New Orleans is much more than just a night for the kids to go trick-or-treating, it’s a dazzling display of fun with many people flocking to the French Quarter. During the Halloween holiday, there is so much to see and do! Bring the family and watch the city parade with zombies, gnomes, ghosts, and other performers dressed in colorful costumes. Second only to Mardi Gras, Halloween is a popular time for tourists to visit New Orleans. Read on to learn about some great Halloween activities.

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How Can You Explore New Orleans Cemeteries at Halloween?

There are several old cemeteries within New Orleans. However, the most famous one is the Lafayette Cemetery located in the Garden District. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and important figures ranging from musicians to a Voodoo Queen, who are buried at the site. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

What Is the Krewe of Boo Halloween Parade?

This Halloween parade is one of the best outside of the carnival season. The family-friendly parade starts around 6:30 pm at Elysian Field Avenue and progresses through the French Quarter to the Warehouse District and then finally to the National World War II Museum. There are many floats with performers dancing and dressed in costumes. After the parade head over to the Monster Mash Party for live music, costume contests, and dance party. Note: you must be 18+ to attend and tickets need to be purchased.

The Krewe of Boo also hosts an annual New Orleans Zombie Run. This two-mile race begins at 9:00 am the day before the parade. Those who wish to participate are asked to come dressed as zombies.

What Is the Lazarus Ball?

The Project Lazarus-home for individuals living with HIV/AIDS organizes some fun events every Halloween. The annual Lazarus Ball is a fund-raising event for the home that is held at the New Orleans Board of Trade. There is lots of food, dancing, and eye-catching costumes. Stick around for the after party for even more Halloween fun.

What Happens at the Voodoo Festival?

The Voodoo Music and Arts festival in New Orleans is a large event that lasts for several days and is hosted by Voodoo Authentica. This shop is known for their unique Voodoo inspired gifts, along with onsite rituals. During the festival Voodoo priests will be there teaching and answering questions about the religion’s rich history and traditions. This three-day event will be held on October 25th to 27th and will feature live music, delicious food, a mini theme park, and lots of Halloween decorations. It’s highly recommended to use public transport to get to and from the venue.

Past festival headliners have included:

• Post Malone

• The National

• Bring Me the Horizon

• Rezz

• Guns N’ Roses

What Is the Death and Mourning Event?

New Orleans has always had a close relationship with the dead. The Death and Mourning event runs through October and is held in the Hermann-Grima House, located at 820 St. Louis Street in the French Quarter. The event commemorates Marie Anne, the mother of Felix Grima, who died in the house on October 15, 1850. You will have the opportunity to explore the property and learn about the religious and cultural significance of death for the people of New Orleans.

Most people associate New Orleans with Mardi Gras. However, the Big Easy is also known for its Halloween celebrations. No city parties like New Orleans! Come down and experience the festivities for yourself.

When Is the Best Time for Halloween in New Orleans?

Halloween festivities build through the second half of October, peaking around the Krewe of Boo parade and the Voodoo Music Experience in late October. Fall is one of the most comfortable times to visit, though New Orleans averages about 62 inches of rain a year, so pack a light jacket, per the National Weather Service.

Why Do People Visit New Orleans for Halloween?

New Orleans drew roughly 18 million visitors in a recent year, according to New Orleans & Company, and Halloween is second only to Mardi Gras for crowds. The city's historic cemeteries, voodoo history, and haunted French Quarter make it a natural fit for the spooky season.

Can You Take a Swamp Tour Around Halloween?

Yes. Bayou Swamp Tours runs 90-minute airboat trips departing about 30 minutes from downtown, with small boats holding 6 to 10 passengers. Autumn is a great time to spot alligators before they slow down for winter, plus many of Louisiana's roughly 400 bird species along the Mississippi Flyway, tracked by Audubon. Book an airboat tour for a break from the crowds.